Best movies of 1983: 25 early-80s film choices
These 25 choices are for viewers building an early-1980s film calendar. Feature films share the list with a few shorter works that make useful double-bill additions.
On this list
Local Hero
The Right Stuff
Terms of Endearment
Tender Mercies
Educating Rita
The Dresser
Trading Places
A Christmas Story
Return of the Jedi
The Big Chill
Zelig
The King of Comedy
Mr. Mom
WarGames
Flashdance
Valley Girl
The Black Stallion Returns
Never Cry Wolf
Cross Creek
The Secret of NIMH
Originally released in 1982; choose the 1983 film The Wind in the Willows for a strict year-only queue.
The Wind in the Willows
Mickey's Christmas Carol
Sans Soleil
And the Ship Sails On
El Sur
Who This List Is For
An early-1980s film calendar needs sessions of different lengths. This 1983 selection gives viewers 25 entries to consider, combining familiar features with shorter work that can fit into a double bill without requiring another full feature-length evening.
How to Use This List
Check running times first, especially before pairing Mickey's Christmas Carol with a feature. Alternate The Right Stuff with a different kind of session, such as Local Hero or Tender Mercies. Confirm availability for Sans Soleil and El Sur early so they do not get displaced by more familiar choices.
Common Mistakes
The Secret of NIMH was released in 1982, so flag it for a strictly dated project. Do not assume every animated entry is short or equally suitable for children. Check the exact version and running time of The Wind in the Willows before assigning it a slot in a double bill.
What Is on This List
Terms of Endearment, Educating Rita, The Dresser, Trading Places, Return of the Jedi, and The Big Chill are included. Zelig, The King of Comedy, WarGames, Never Cry Wolf, and Cross Creek add further options. Cross off films you already own from the acquisition search, keeping unwatched copies in your calendar.
When You Are Done
Record each completed work separately, even when two share an evening. After a run of familiar American features, move Sans Soleil, And the Ship Sails On, or El Sur into the next opening. Keep your release-year exception visible so the final 1983 progress count follows the rule you chose.
FAQ
Who is "Best movies of 1983: 25 early-80s film choices" for?
An early-1980s film calendar needs sessions of different lengths. This 1983 selection gives viewers 25 entries to consider, combining familiar features with shorter work that can fit into a double bill without requiring another full feature-length evening.
How should I use "Best movies of 1983: 25 early-80s film choices"?
Check running times first, especially before pairing Mickey's Christmas Carol with a feature. Alternate The Right Stuff with a different kind of session, such as Local Hero or Tender Mercies. Confirm availability for Sans Soleil and El Sur early so they do not get displaced by more familiar choices.
What should I skip or avoid with "Best movies of 1983: 25 early-80s film choices"?
The Secret of NIMH was released in 1982, so flag it for a strictly dated project. Do not assume every animated entry is short or equally suitable for children. Check the exact version and running time of The Wind in the Willows before assigning it a slot in a double bill.
What is on the "Best movies of 1983: 25 early-80s film choices" list?
Terms of Endearment, Educating Rita, The Dresser, Trading Places, Return of the Jedi, and The Big Chill are included. Zelig, The King of Comedy, WarGames, Never Cry Wolf, and Cross Creek add further options. Cross off films you already own from the acquisition search, keeping unwatched copies in your calendar.
What should I do when I am done?
Record each completed work separately, even when two share an evening. After a run of familiar American features, move Sans Soleil, And the Ship Sails On, or El Sur into the next opening. Keep your release-year exception visible so the final 1983 progress count follows the rule you chose.
Related lists
For general planning only. Valedo does not guarantee this list’s accuracy, completeness, or suitability. Verify information before relying on it. Not a substitute for professional advice or safety training.